Triphenylethylene is primarily used in the field of medicinal chemistry as a core structure for synthesizing selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs). These compounds are crucial in treating hormone-dependent cancers, such as breast cancer, by blocking estrogen receptors in cancer cells. Additionally, it serves as an intermediate in the production of tamoxifen, a widely prescribed drug for breast cancer prevention and treatment. In research, triphenylethylene derivatives are explored for their potential in managing osteoporosis and other estrogen-related conditions. Its applications also extend to organic synthesis, where it acts as a building block for creating complex molecules in pharmaceutical development.